avocado reforestation community service

We're psyched about this new offering! As always, the Bambu Guest House works closely with Atitlan Organics to offer our guests the chance to participate in all the amazing Permaculture-based activities going on just up the road, and this is our newest collaboration. Designed for a minimum of 5 people and customizable according to your group's availability (1 day - 1 week), the Avocado Reforestation Service Project focuses on building long-term food security, conserving natural resources, and preserving ancient endangered avocado genetics all while enjoying the stunning beauty of Lake Atitlan's most magical town.

The project is dedicated to serving the community and ecosystem of Tzununa through the edible diversification of coffee fields and the cultural interchange between local Mayan farmers and international travelers, students, and volunteers. Our program is designed to offer national and international groups of students, volunteers, and travelers the opportunity to work alongside small farmers, learn about agro-forestry and ecosystem restoration, while leaving a long-lasting improvement in the community. We arrange transport, room and board, and the whole community service experience, so that the group can focus on giving back and making the most of a rich travel adventure. If you are interested in bringing a group to help diversify a coffee field and aid in long term food security and economic development, get in touch now!

activities around lake atitlan:

There's so much to do around Tzununa and Lake Atitlan! Whether you want a low-key day of yoga and relaxing by the lake, an inspiring morning learning about Permaculture, or a more adventurous agenda of exploring the Chichicastenango market, there's something for everyone. We're happy to help set up transportation, guides, and facilitators for anything you're interested in checking out, including:

permaculture

Explore Atitlan Organics, just up the road from the Bambu. The best way to get to know the farm is to join a Friday Farm Tour, offered by donation every Friday morning at 10:00. See how mutually beneficial relationships can be developed between land, humans, plants, and animals. We can set up tours on other days for guests who will not be with us on a Friday. Tours last approximately 2 hours.

nature and outdoors activities

Lakeside lounging is a must, but if you're also looking for something more active we can help you arrange kayak rentals or Stand Up Paddleboard excursions on the lake. Hike nearby Indian Nose or San Pedro Volcano at sunrise, or check out the Atitlan Nature Reserve outside of Panajachel for a heart-pounding zipline adventure. Whatever your pace, there's something for you at the lake!

cultural activities

The open-air markets of Guatemala are truly a sight to behold, and we're lucky to have nearby access to some of the best! The famous Chichicastenango market sprawls over many city blocks and is a feast for the eyes, while the Santiago market is a meeting place for highlands and coastal communities. Or take a class at one of San Juan la Laguna's natural dyeing and weaving cooperatives, which produce beautiful and modern textiles while preserving Mayan weaving tradition. Celebrate a traditional Mayan ceremony of blessing and health with a local Shaman or take a Guatemalan cooking class try your hand at tortillas! Culture abounds here in the Mayan heartland.

learn spanish

Learn to roll those R's and conjugate like a pro---or just order some recado de pepian successfully. We'll set up group or individual Spanish classes for you with some of the very best Spanish teachers.